THE GOLDEN MILE is a 24-minute Australian documentary written and directed by Ian Martin Henschke, who also produces it with Sean Lander.
The film recounts one of the most extraordinary partnerships in sporting history: that between Herb Elliott, Olympic 1,500-metre champion in Rome 1960 and unbeaten in the mile, and his coach Percy Cerutty, an unconventional and visionary figure in his approach to track and field.
The protagonists are therefore the athletes and real figures themselves: Elliott, with his legendary career, and Cerutty, with his unconventional training methods. The narrative unfolds in the context of athletics through training, races and moments of exchange between athlete and coach, highlighting the human and sporting bond that led to exceptional results.
Beyond sport, the documentary offers a universal message: achieving goals requires discipline, commitment and a clear vision. The story thus becomes a metaphor for personal and professional growth, showing what it truly means to succeed in life.
In production terms, it is an independent, non-student project made with a budget of AUD 25,000. The film was completed on 12 July 2024 in Australia and uses material in black and white and colour.
Film Information
Title: THE GOLDEN MILE
Original title: THE GOLDEN MILE
Direction: Ian Martin Henschke
Production: Emission Impossible (Ian Martin Henschke), Kenny (Sean Lander)
Country: Australia
Language: English
Running time: 24 minutes
Genre: Documentary
Sport featured: Athletics (mile and 1,500 metres)
Main subjects: Herb Elliott, Percy Cerutty
Completion date: 12 July 2024
Premiere: [Not specified]
Distributor: [Not available]
Shooting format: Digital Video, black and white and colour
Director's first film: No
Student project: No